ALA Booklist
Picking up moments after the conclusion of Trial by Fire (2014), Lily finds herself back in Salem, Massachusetts, badly burned, with Rowan by her side. While healing from her ordeal, she must quickly readjust to the life and world she used to know. Armed with her new skills and understanding, Lily recruits her old friends to her coven. Lillian and Carrick relentlessly pursue Lily, and she and her new coven travel back into the alternate Salem, again fighting the Woven, who prove to be more organized and sophisticated than previously thought. Being able to see into Tristan's mind and memories highlights his devotion to her, but Lily remains bonded to Rowan. The love between Rowan and Lily is never in question, despite a conflict and betrayal incited by the machinations of battle. The action and focus on loyalty and relationships remains high in this second volume.
School Library Journal
Gr 8 Up-This work picks up right where Trial by Fire (Feiwel & Friends, 2014) left off. Lily Proctor has survived the Pyre but is badly burned. She had enough presence of mind to transport herself and Rowan Fall from alternate Salem to her universe so she could heal. While there, characters from the previous volume reappear, including Tristan and Breakfast, along with some newcomers. Lily and Rowan discover they have magic in Lily's world, too, and have to decide if they share the secret of magic. While they are in Lily's world, Lillian, the worldwalking ruler of the 13 Cities, is not content to let Lily go, and she will do what she must to bring her back to alternate Salem because only Lily has the power to save it. Angelini takes readers on a high stakes and fast-paced ride once again. The author blends fantasy, science fiction, mythology, and light romance seamlessly, and this tale will appeal to a broad spectrum of readers. VERDICT A satisfying second series installment that will leave teens anxious for the next title, especially after the cliff-hanger ending. Stephanie Charlefour, Wixom Public Library, MI